he continued topsy-turvy weather pattern has many anglers frustrated, and some anglers happy, as the number of fishermen on the Fox River and Green Bay is low, considering we are near the peak of walleye spawning, based on the calendar. Windy days in both places hampered typical finesse presentations, but many who braved the rough conditions were rewarded with beautiful prespawn walleyes. The Bay at Oconto has been hit and miss, with some days finding big walleyes aggressive, pouncing on hair jig and rippin raps, and other days begging for the bite to turn on. The Fox River has been also hit and miss, with daytime catches lagging behind the night bite. Those fishing at night have met success trolling the flats below the 172 bridge with big stickbaits such as Hit sticks, husky jerks, and P10’s behind lighted planer boards. Night trolling and casting rippin raps is also putting walleyes in the boat on the Bay. With east shore areas still dealing with ice, the west side has been the place to go. Shore anglers are finding success by Voyager Park casting hair jigs and rippin raps, with the better bite there also taking place at night. Just a reminder: the limit on the Fox River up to the refuge line near the De Pere dam in 1 walleye 28” or bigger, and the limit on the Bay is 1 walleye 15” or bigger. Please let those big female walleyes go and finish their spawning ritual! As always, if you go, please be safe, and take a kid fishing!
Capt Jerry Ruffolo
Anglers Plus Guide Service
920-973-2868
